It is the night before Christmas, the year is 1891 and Queen Victoria reigns in England, as hushed murmurs of motor-powered vehicles and exotic dances wend through the frosty air. The railways, thriving, weave fresh pathways through the countryside, intertwining the nation and ushering forth both passengers and economic affluence. Meanwhile, illusionists captivate audiences with magical escapes, dance halls and theatre performances are in full swing, and circuses beguile guests amid their golden era.
In the tranquil village of Bramblewick, the townsfolk reveal in the merriments of the season. Edward Langston, the eccentric purveyor of the local toy store, had shuttered his shop for the night and embarked upon the thoroughfare in pursuit of amusement. ‘Twas a prosperous year for the shopkeep, having not long left behind the bustling city, where competition waged fiercely. Here, amidst the unhurried cadence of village life, small emporiums like his are affectionately embraced by the locals.
In his absence, passersby gaze in awe upon his displays, the bright colours and intricate fastening bathed in the gentle luminescence of oil lamps, whilst children brim with eager anticipation for the treasures that awaited them on the morrow.
The Barretts stand at the doorstep of the toy shop, a prominent family, held in esteemed repute within the community. Gabriel, the partriach, amassed his fortune in the world of banking. A stoic and pious man, he is known to be unwavering in his devotion to his God, his kin and the tenets of labour. It is said, however, that beneath his firm and commanding exterior lies a man of genuine care.
Eleanor, his wife, is the subject of both admiration and envy among the ladies of the village. Her marriage to Gabriel, although steeped in sincere affection, has not been without its share of controversy, owing to her humble origins—a detail she is determined to erase from memory. She is always fitted in opulent attire, never lacking in modesty and carries herself with innate refinement. Her frequent engagement in various philanthropic endeavours give her a powerful voice in matters of village council.
On this eve in particular, their presence is guided to the toy store by their son, Francis. A loud and boisterous boy, Francis is, for the most part, well liked. The prosperity of his father has spared him from life’s graver tribulations, however, resulting in the occasional petulant outburst.
The spirited celebrations deflect attention as an unassuming guest arrives in the village. As quiet as a mouse, he moves with stealth. The pristine, snow-covered streets muffling his footsteps so that neither child nor adult take notice of his presence. Cloaked in the cover of darkness, the mysterious visitor traverses the town and to each home bestows a gift to delight and surprise, when the soft light of morning brings forth another magical Christmas day.
Sign up to our newsletter for community updates, early access goodies and to pre-order for our 2023 limited release.
